Oklahoma

" The Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC) is an agreement between states that allows nurses to have one license but the ability to practice in other states that are part of the agreement.

Originally developed in 2000, in 2024 the license has grown to include 39 states. To help streamline the process for nurses the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC) was implemented in 2018 and included standards for licensure which the original compact license was lacking.

Each state needs a competent medical workforce to meet the needs of its citizens. However, the requirements for some health care professions are not the same in each state. That is why it is important to find out what is required of you as a future or current registered nurse before moving across state lines. Contact information is located at the bottom of this page.

Endorsements

General requirements for endorsement in Oklahoma are listed below.

• Complete application with fees
  • $85.00 application fee
  • $10.00 for temporary license
  • Application fee is $125 for foreign applicants. $85 for endorsement + $40 Education Equivalence Evaluation.
  • Online Application and Instructions
• Proof of lawful presence in the US
  • Nurses educated outside the US should click here for instructions.
• Proof of graduation from an approved program located in the US or in a US territory. Curriculum must include:
  • Adult care
  • Child care
  • Maternal and newborn nursing
  • Nursing for psychiatric and mental health

• Generally, a passing NCLEX score is required; however, for further exam information, click here.

• Your original state of licensure must send verification of your license and proof of graduation. If they cannot prove your graduation, your school will need to send an original transcript to the Board. Click here to see if your state participates in www.nursys.com, an online system for license verification.

• Proof of continuing education and experience
  • Board approved refresher course work
  • Passing NCLEX or 105 credit hours of classroom and clinical nursing coursework
  • 520 hours of work experience as an RN over the last two years
• Criminal Background Check
  • If you have an Oklahoma mailing address you will need to go to an IdentGo center. To schedule an appointment, click here to do it.
  • If you have an out-of-state mailing address you will receive coded fingerprint cards in the mail. You will be responsible for any incurred costs associated with fingerprinting.

Continuing competency

You must fulfill one of the following requirements for continued qualification and renewal purposes:

• 520 hours of work as an RN, or
• 24 hours of relevant, continuing nursing education
• Current nursing specialty certification
• Six hours of coursework (academic credit) at the RN level or higher
• Board approved refresher course
  • Click here for board approved refresher courses.
  • For more details on the refresher course policy, click here.

This state requires nurses to hold current ACLS certification.

Contact information

Oklahoma Board of Nursing

2915 N Classen, Ste. 524
Oklahoma City, OK 73106

Phone number: 405.962.1800

Fax number: 405.962.1821

FAQ

Click here for Oklahoma Nursing Board frequently asked questions.